Best camera rucksack for hiking - Any recommendations?

[Big Worm 1]

I've got a Canon 550D which i like to take with me when i go hiking, but wrapped up in a towel or fleece inside my rucksack isn't an ideal solution.

I'm looking for a rucksack that can combine the two. I want something that has compartments for the camera, lenses, tripod, etc, as well as having room for change of socks, lunch, thin waterproof jacket, and fleece. I'm also looking for something that has an airflow system so i don't get a really sweaty back.

Any recommendations anyone?

p.s. this is likely to be a Xmas present off SWMBO so it can't cost the earth.

Thanks

[MysteryLemon]

Shame. I just sold this - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/110976542192?ssPageName=...

Lowepro Compudaypack.

DSLR/Lens compartment at the bottom (heavily padded), flat paddedcompartment to slide a 17" laptop in at the back, then a normal largeish compartment at the front for everything else.

Quite a big thing and no use to me at all (came with my camera), hence why I sold it.

Can't really say I would recommend it as I never used it but sounds like the sort of thing you might be after? Although maybe a little too small?

[Matt..]

Personally I don't see the need for a dedicated camera bag for this. You don't have enough gear to really make it worth while. I personally use a standard Osprey hydration backpack when I am walking with my camera kit. I'd rather use someone designed for hiking. I carry a 5dmk2, a few lenses, and tripod, plus normal hiking stuff.

It's worth considering going this way, and make sure you only ever carry what you need, and not everything

[paul911]

I use the Lowepro Fastpack 350 when out walking. Bottom half takes the camera gear, including quick camera access for that all important snap. And the top half takes the buttys, fleece, drinks ect. Very comfortable when out walking.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lowepro-Fastpack-350-Backp...

[PJ S]

Alternatives.....?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004JIWSMC/
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0043WFK5Q/

[Gad-Westy]

Not the cheapest option but these things are superb.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lowepro-Photo-Sport-Backpa...

[markmullen]

One option is your normal hiking rucksack, whatever suits you, and an F Stop ICU http://fstopgear.com/product/mountain/icu

[SlidingSideways]

The dedicated camera rucksacks never have enough room left over for everything you need for a days walking.
Far better to get a proper walking pack and a proper protective pouch for the camera & lenses and put those in the bag.
Tripods can be attached to the outside of most rucksacks with bungee/velcro/using the ice axe loops etc...

[Craikeybaby]

Another vote for the FStop Gear range, they're designed as decent walking packs that you can add the padded camera section to.